Travel Consultant Faces Shs1.2 Billion Theft Charge

A travel consultant, identified as Abbey Serunkuma, has been formally charged with a significant theft amounting to approximately Shs1.24 billion. Serunkuma, 42, allegedly misappropriated $320,122 from his employer, Africa Travel Limited, where he held positions as a travel consultant and account manager.

The alleged crime is said to have occurred between March and September 2026 at the company’s offices located in Uganda House, Kampala. The prosecution has charged Serunkuma with theft, citing relevant sections of the Penal Code Act.

Appearing before Senior Principal Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko at the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court, Serunkuma entered a plea of not guilty to the charges. His lawyer, Mr Swaibu Kitakule, indicated an intention to apply for bail, but the proceedings were delayed due to the absence of the prosecution.

Mr Kitakule expressed concern over his client’s detention, noting that Serunkuma had been in custody for two weeks. The defense lawyer also suggested that the complainant might be using legal means to unduly punish his client, stating that the complainant had not actively pursued the matter at the police station.

Magistrate Nankya, however, noted that she could not issue witness summons at that juncture, especially without confirmation that police investigations were complete. Serunkuma was remanded and is scheduled to return to court on October 30, 2026, to pursue his bail application.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/travel-consultant-charged-over-shs1-2b-theft-5634576